What Is the DS-2019 Form?
Your essential guide to understanding the Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1) Status
Understanding the DS-2019 Form
What Is the DS-2019 Form?
The DS-2019, officially called the Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1) Status, is a U.S. Department of State document required for anyone applying for a J-1 Visa. This form proves that you have been accepted into an approved Exchange Visitor Program and outlines the key details of your participation. Without a DS-2019, you cannot apply for a J-1 Visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
Why It's Important
The DS-2019 is more than just paperwork—it's your official invitation to participate in a cultural exchange program in the United States. It:
Confirms your program sponsor's authorization by the U.S. Department of State
States your program category (e.g., Intern, Trainee, Summer Work Travel, Au Pair, Teacher)
Shows your program's start and end dates
Lists the estimated financial support you'll have during your stay
Who Issues the DS-2019?
Only designated J-1 program sponsors can issue DS-2019 forms. This could be:
- • A U.S. employer partnered with a J-1 sponsor
- • A designated sponsoring organization such as CIEE, InterExchange, or others
- • An educational or cultural exchange institution
Your sponsor is responsible for confirming your eligibility, collecting required documents, and entering your information into the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) before issuing the DS-2019.
What's on the DS-2019?
The form includes:
Your personal information
(matching your passport)
Your SEVIS ID number
(unique identifier for your program)
Program category and description
(type of exchange program)
Start and end dates of your program
(official program duration)
Estimated cost and funding sources
(financial information)
Sponsor's information and signature
(official authorization)
Instructions for applying for your J-1 Visa
(next steps in the process)
How to Get a DS-2019
Apply & Be Accepted
You must first be accepted into an approved J-1 Exchange Visitor Program.
Submit Required Documents
This often includes your passport copy, proof of English proficiency, financial statements, and a signed program agreement.
Sponsor Review
Your sponsor verifies your eligibility and enters your data into SEVIS.
Form Issuance
The sponsor sends you the DS-2019, usually by courier or secure mail.
Using the DS-2019 in Your Visa Application
Once you have your DS-2019:
Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee
Required payment before visa interview
Complete the DS-160 online visa application
Official visa application form
Schedule your visa interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate
Book your appointment online
Bring your original DS-2019, passport, and other supporting documents to the interview
Prepare all required documentation
Important Notes
Keep It Safe
You must carry your DS-2019 with you when traveling in or out of the U.S. during your program.
Stay Within Dates
Your program must begin and end within the dates listed on your DS-2019.
Report Changes
Any change to your program, funding, or personal details must be updated by your sponsor and reflected in SEVIS.
Ready to Start Your J-1 Journey?
Uncle Sam Placement is here to guide you through every step of the DS-2019 and J-1 visa process.